Unique wilderness just outside the big city

Venture offshore to the well-preserved Channel Islands National Park, where the year-round destination yields opportunities for strolling a tranquil beach, hiking a mountain trail, viewing wildflowers and exploring a pristine marine environment as the ocean laps the shoreline. Camp overnight, look off a cliff, watch seals and their pups, or reel in a fish. To plot a trip, make the first stop the Robert J. Lagomarsino Visitor Center at the northern tip of Ventura Beach on the California mainland. There, see exhibits featuring the character of each island in the park system.

An island retreat off the coast of Los Angeles, California, Channel Islands National Park includes five beautiful islands that preserve a vast array of wildlife and landscapes, both under the water and on land.

The separation from the mainland has allowed many unique animals and plants to flourish on these islands. The park boasts about 280 kilometers of pristine undeveloped coastline, where sea lions lounge and sand crabs scuttle. And just off the coast, a myriad of marine life — from colorful fish and coral to mammoth whales — occupies the Pacific. All across the islands, you’ll find opportunities to dive, snorkel, kayak, hike and watch the sunset (head to Cavern Point on Santa Cruz Island or Torrey Pines on Santa Rosa Island for the best views). Just be sure to save some time to explore Catalina Island, where a bustling harbor town offers shopping, dining and tours.